Direct selling provides an opportunity for individuals to earn an income and build
their own business. This employment option offers an alternative for those who desire
a flexible income earning opportunity to supplement their household income, or whose
responsibilities or circumstances do not allow for regular part-time or full-time
employment.
The start-up costs for an individual initiating an independent direct selling business
are usually very low. A minimally priced sales kit is usually all that is required
for someone to get started. Direct selling companies market their products through
person-to-person contact away from a fixed retail location through a network of independent
sellers.
Frequently, these sales presentations are in the form of one of the following:
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a sales party in the home;
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as part of a one-to-one get-together; or
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through door-to-door solicitations.
Some examples of direct selling companies are Mary Kay, Avon, Tupperware, Pampered
Chef, Longaberger, Home and Garden Party, Creative Memories, and Discovery Toys.